Philippines South China Sea policy

A look back at the strategic dynamics of the maritime disputes in 2023, and what we might expect in the new year.

The dueling patrols, which were scheduled to take place on January 3-4, encapsulate the intensifying frictions in the waterway.

The Philippines and the U.S. are on solid legal ground, but what is lawful is not always wise.

The comments from Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro came as Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi warned that bilateral relations are "at a crossroads."

After a tumultuous 2023, the Philippines is set for another year of confrontation in contested waters.

In two separate incidents over the weekend, Chinese vessels collided with and used water cannons against Philippine ships in contested parts of the South China Sea.

The incident is the latest in a string of assertive Chinese actions in waters claimed by Beijing and Manila.

President Marcos said that his administration has reached out to Malaysia and Vietnam at a time of growing friction in contested waters.

The confrontation was just the latest Chinese attempt to prevent the resupply of Second Thomas Shoal, a Philippine-occupied feature in the Spratly Islands.

The accusation follows the Chinese military's claim that a Philippine vessel "illegally entered" the area around Scarborough Shoal, which both nations claim.

China's campaign of escalation against the Philippine-held Second Thomas Shoal will only strengthen Manila's ties with supportive outside powers.

Washington has once again affirmed that it has a treaty obligation to defend the Philippines against any armed attack in the contested waterway.